1:2 Me 109E-4/7 Nat. Insignias Dragon

The real subject

The Bf 109E, also commonly designated Me 109E, is a German single-engine fighter of the early Second World War. The E-4 and E-7 versions are among the most frequently built: the E-7 differs from the earlier version above all in being able to carry a rack under the fuselage. In 1:32 scale the surface of the model comes out, and so do the national insignia, which on a large model make up a conspicuous area.

What the set is for

The set holds masks for spraying the national insignia, that is for the method in which the insignia are not applied as a decal but painted directly onto the model. That does away with the carrier film of a decal and with the risk of the edge of the decal shining once dry. The insignia also follows the surface of the model, so it does not sit across engraving and riveting as an island. The masks are pre-cut and listed for a model in 1:32 scale from Dragon. In a large scale the difference is especially easy to see, because the area of an insignia is large and any decal edge would be obvious at first glance.

Building and painting tips

• Fit the masks only onto a dry primer coat, on a clean and degreased surface.
• Press the edges down carefully so that paint cannot run under them.
• Spray in thin coats and preferably in several passes.
• With multicolored insignia you work in layers; the order and the registration follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Take the mask off shortly after the paint has dried, at an angle to the surface.

Terms of supply

The set of masks is supplied on its own. The kit, paints and decals are not included in the box, unless stated otherwise.